Department of Information and Tourism, Taipei City Government

Mayor Hau Lung-bin entrusted the representatives of Taipei’s team with the city flag on the eve of the 2009 National Athletic Games. He encouraged the players to do their best at the games and demonstrate Taipei’s “healthy city” spirit.
During the flag presentation on October 24, the mayor said he is confident that the team from Taipei will achieve outstanding results at the games. The city’s team, consisting of 493 athletes, will be competing in 30 sports.
Hau cited the 2009 Deaflympics as an example of a successful sports event. The exciting events boosted both the morale of residents and the pride of the city. He hopes that the athletes will be able to accomplish the same thing, bringing honor to their hometown.
In addition to conveying his well wishes, the mayor also reminded the athletes to pay attention to their health and avoid sports injuries.
Taipei Sports Office pointed out that the city has raised the incentives for the participants of the 2009 National Athletic Games; gold medalists will receive NT$250,000, along with NT$100,000 for their coaches and additional subsidies for training.
The 2009 National Athletic Game is taking place in Taichung between October 24 and 29.